Comparing Costs: Gas Vs Electric

Choosing the right water heater for your home involves considering various factors, including energy costs. Electric water heaters are a popular choice, but how do they compare to other energy sources in terms of operating costs? Let’s compare the energy costs of electric water heaters with those of gas and propane water heaters to help you make an informed decision.

• Electric Water Heaters:Electric water heaters are known for their energy efficiency, but they can be more expensive to operate compared to gas and propane water heaters. The average cost of electricity in the United States is around $0.13 per kilowatt-hour (kWh). A typical electric water heater with a capacity of 50 gallons and an energy factor of 0.95 (which is considered high efficiency) will consume approximately 4,550 kWh per year, resulting in an annual cost of around $591.
• Gas Water Heaters:Gas water heaters are often more cost-effective to operate compared to electric water heaters, especially in areas where natural gas is readily available. The average cost of natural gas in the United States is around $1.13 per therm (a unit of heat energy). A typical gas water heater with a capacity of 50 gallons and an energy factor of 0.62 (which is common for gas water heaters) will consume approximately 293 therms per year, resulting in an annual cost of around $332.
• Propane Water Heaters:Propane water heaters are like gas water heaters in terms of operating costs, but propane prices can vary depending on location and season. The average cost of propane in the United States is around $2.50 per gallon. A typical propane water heater with a capacity of 50 gallons and an energy factor of 0.62 will consume approximately 190 gallons per year, resulting in an annual cost of around $475.

Comparing the annual operating costs of these three types of water heaters, we can see that gas water heaters are the most cost-effective, followed by electric water heaters and then propane water heaters. However, it's important to note that the actual operating costs can vary based on factors such as local energy prices, water usage habits, and the efficiency of the water heater.

In conclusion, when choosing a water heater for your home, it's important to consider not only the upfront cost but also the long-term operating costs. While electric water heaters are energy efficient, they may be more expensive to operate compared to gas and propane water heaters. Understanding the comparative energy costs can help you make an informed decision that suits your budget and energy needs.